A WOMAN and child were rescued from the sea off Southend Pier.

The pair were spotted by Southend RNLI who had been having a cheque presentation on the pier yesterday [Saturday], when they saw someone in the water.

The crews launched the hovercraft, and rescued the pair who were suffering from mild hypothermia.

They were brought to shore and stretchered to the shelter of the boathouse.

First aid was given to them until the ambulance arrived.

But it was then decided that the police, who were already on scene, would transport them to hospital to avoid delay.